Creating Safe Spaces: Encouraging Open Dialogue and Participation

by Patrice Lorick

 

Can you recall a time when you were in an uncomfortable or unsafe space? I can recall a time or two. I have been the wife of a minister for 18 years. We have been a part of interviews where I was the only woman in the room with my husband and the elders of the church, until recently. Given this situation, can you see how that could make me feel uncomfortable or in an unsafe space?

Most recently, we were in an interview where I felt comfortable and safe. I was not the only woman in the room. My husband was present, the elders were present, and guess what? The elders’ wives were present too. I have never experienced that before. It gave me a sense of calm and peace to know that other women were present, and it made the conversations and questions easier to discuss. There were people in the room that could understand where I was coming from on certain topics.

It is important for women to be a part of church discussions because they can bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table. It is important for the church to address the needs of all members equally. It is important to provide opportunities for women to voice their opinions, and contribute to decisions that need to be made, which can help build leadership skills within the church. Active participation from women provides inclusiveness, develops leadership, and can strengthen the church community.

Jesus included women on his journey with Him and disciples. They were…Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, “and many others,” which we read in Luke 8. Not only did these women provide financial support along the way, but they were there with Jesus and bearing witness to Him and his wonderfulness.

Creating a safe space just simply means a space where someone can be themselves without having to hold back or filter what they are trying to express. When I was in a space with just men, I felt like I had to hold back a little, but having other wives in the room with their husbands gave me more freedom to speak and to just relax, and to know that my voice was being heard, and that there was equality in the room. My experience in creating a safe space may be different from someone else’s, and my hope is that more spaces created can be a safe one for all.